India advances plan to develop 1,000-kg aerial bombs for Indian Air Force under self-reliance push

India has initiated steps to develop heavy aerial bombs weighing 1,000 kilograms for the Indian Air Force as part of efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing. Officials said the defence ministry has issued an Expression of Interest for the design, development and procurement of the bombs along with associated tail units and related equipment.

The proposed project aims to develop aerial bombs similar in capability to the widely used Mk-84 class bombs. These heavy munitions are designed for use in aerial strike missions and can be deployed from fighter aircraft to target fortified structures and strategic positions. According to officials, the Expression of Interest has been issued under the provisions of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020. The move is expected to invite participation from domestic defence manufacturers and technology partners capable of developing and producing the required systems.

The initiative forms part of a broader effort to strengthen India’s defence production ecosystem and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers for critical military equipment. By developing such systems within the country, authorities aim to enhance operational readiness while advancing the goal of greater self-reliance in defence capabilities.